Cost to repair a washing machine

Most washing machine repairs cost between $150 and $500, but it typically takes a professional evaluation to know exactly how much a repair will cost. To get a better idea of what your repair may set you back, we surveyed eight appliance repair professionals from around the country for information on real-world costs.

Keep reading to learn about common washing machine problems, whether it’s better to repair or replace your washer, and how much repairs may cost you.

Key insights

• You can fix some washing machine issues yourself if you’re handy, but it’s often better to call an appliance repair company for help.
• Your repair costs will depend on the problem you’re having and the make and model of your washer.
• If your washer is more than five years old and the repair cost is over 50% of the price of a new washer, consider buying a new unit instead of repairing the old one.

Common washing machine problems

Washers can break down for many reasons, but experts see some issues repeatedly.

“I go through this every single week and the most common problems with washers are 1) not draining, 2) not spinning, 3) making loud noises like a grinding or rubbing noise, and 4) the water’s not coming in,” said David Asunbo, a technician with Niyalu Repair Service in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.

With more than 16 years in the appliance repair business, Asunbo has found that the same issues can come up regardless of the type of washer you have. However, the cause is often unclear, and some types of washers may be prone to specific failures.

Here’s a rundown of the most common problems for different types of washing machines, according to our panel of specialists.

Portable washer problems

Portable washers aren’t connected directly to your water line; instead, they use a hose that attaches to any faucet in your home. Because the hose is attached each time it's used, this coupling can become damaged and create water supply issues. Portable washers are simple machines, however, so they’re typically cheaper to fix.

Semi-automatic washer problems

Semi-automatic machines typically have two tubs (washing and spinning) and require users to manually add water for both the wash and rinse cycles. Semi-automatic washers often have drainage problems, though — usually caused by a malfunctioning control module

Top-loading washer problems

Top loaders are the most common washers in the U.S. because they’re the most affordable to purchase and repair. They tend to require more energy and water than front loaders, however. Top-loading washers often have drainage problems and faulty door switches, which can cause your washing cycle to stop prematurely.

Front-loading washer problems

It’s easier to strain the internal components in a front-loading washer because the drum is oriented horizontally. The most common problems with this type of washer involve broken belts or hoses that prevent the drum from spinning.

Under-the-counter washer problems

Under-the-counter models (also called compact washers) are typically smaller than regular washing machines. They tend to have the same problems as standard-size front loaders, but it can be more expensive to order parts and harder to find trained technicians to work on them because they’re not as common. 

Integrated washer problems

Integrated washers are designed to fit under your counter and hide behind cabinetry. Like compact washers, these are more expensive to fix due to the limited availability of parts and a shortage of repair techs. Also, because they’re built-in, it may be necessary to remove cabinets to access an integrated machine.

Repair costs by type of washer

The type of washer you have also affects your expected repair cost, according to the appliance repair professionals we interviewed.

Because of their size and simplicity, portable washers are the cheapest type of washer to repair, while under-the-counter and integrated units tend to be the most expensive. Repairs for top- and front-loading washers are fairly affordable since they’re popular, making parts and technicians for them easy to find.

Repair costs by washer brand

The cost of repairing a washing machine frequently depends on the brand of your machine. However, you often get what you pay for, and many of our sources admitted that brands like Bosch are expensive, they do last a long time.

Washing machine repair costs by problem

When your washer starts to break down, you may have to deal with leaks, clanking sounds, unexpected shutdowns or your machine not turning on at all. In general, leaks and door problems are the least expensive repairs, while problems with digital readouts are the most expensive.

Many repair companies charge a $70 to $100 service fee to come to your home and diagnose your problem, but this fee is often waived if you end up hiring them to complete the repair. Still, you’re unlikely to get away with a repair under $100 once you figure in labor and material costs.

Washing machine repair costs by part

If you know what component in your washer is malfunctioning, you may be able to order a replacement part yourself. However, diagnosis is often best left to professionals because there could be more than one faulty part.

The part costs are highly dependent on your brand of washer and how old it is. Imported parts may be more expensive, and manufacturers can stop producing parts for discontinued models, making the remaining supply more valuable.

Check out the table below to see what you might pay for common washing machine parts, not including installation.

Broken washing machine: repair or replace?

With most home appliances, you can follow the 50% rule: if your repair costs are more than 50% of what a new machine costs and your unit is more than 50% through its expected life span — replace it. After that point, the time and money you invest into repairs will have diminishing returns. However, some decisions aren’t as cut and dry, especially if you have a matching dryer that’s still working.

If your repair costs are more than 50% of what a new machine costs and your unit is more than 50% through its expected life span — replace it.”

New washing machines should last 10 years or longer, but that means a washer more than five years old may have already provided most of the utility you can expect from it long term. While you can potentially keep a washing machine running much longer with repairs and proper maintenance, that might not be cost-effective (especially if you have other reasons to want an upgrade — like improving energy efficiency).

You should also consider the kind of repair you’re facing. Asunbo, the technician from Pennsylvania we interviewed, pointed out some problems that are too complicated to warrant a repair.

“The most expensive repair is when you have to replace a motor or a shaft. We’re talking about two to three hours of labor," Asunbo said. "Or, if you have to replace a control board — we’re talking $400-plus. These are expensive repairs, and at that point it doesn’t really make sense for you to put money into it.”

Washing machine prices vary considerably, but many popular models cost $500 - $1,000.

Check your warranty coverage before you shell out money for a repair or replacement, though New washers may still be under the manufacturer’s warranty, and if you have a home warranty, it may cover repairing or replacing your appliances.

Timothy, a ConsumerAffairs reviewer from Williamstown, New Jersey, told us their washing machine repair was covered and completed faster than expected thanks to their home warranty.

“I was really impressed … and very happy that he fixed everything as quickly as he did,” they said. “He was very informative, told me exactly what to do, went over the care and maintenance of the washing machine before he left and suggested what type of detergent we should be using in it from here forward.”

Bottom line

On average, it will cost you $150 to $500 to repair your washer, but you might be better off replacing your unit if it’s more than five years old and you get an estimate that’s more than half the cost of a new washer. A home warranty can protect you from these costs, but it might not be worth the cost unless you have other home systems or appliances you’re worried about.